The expertise of the Urology Department covers the entire spectrum of urology, including paediatric urology, reconstructive urology, uro-oncology and the removal of kidney stones with modern techniques. Using the latest equipment, our department also carries out photodynamic diagnosis to visualise and treat tumours of the bladder and offers a comprehensive range of minimally invasive keyhole procedures (all types, including those assisted by the Da Vinci® robot) and neuromodulation (the stimulation of nerves to treat urination difficulties).

Facts and figures

In 2011 the Urology Department performed 213 urethra reconstructions, putting it in a leading position in Germany. Together with the Martini Hospital, 2,225 radical prostatectomies were carried out on patients suffering from prostate cancer. Our two institutions are therefore the world and European leaders in this field. The Urology Department also leads the way in reconstructive procedures on the exterior genitalia, bladder and kidney surgery and treatment of benign enlargement of the prostate using holmium laser therapy (HoLEP). In 2011 we also carried out 70 radical removals of the bladder (with bladder reconstructions), used the Da Vinci® robot system 391 times (UKE + Martini Hospital) and performed 53 traditional laparoscopies, 227 holmium laser prostate operations and 147 nephrectomies/partial kidney removals (open, laparoscopic, robot-assisted).

Plastic reconstructive urology

Plastic reconstructive procedures are a key focus of our department. These can be used to treat everything from congenital abnormalities to acquired diseases anywhere in the entire uro-genital tract. Our department is the national reference centre in the treatment of urethral constrictions, e.g. as a result of accidents, surgery or inflammation. Endoscopic, laparoscopic, minimally invasive and open reconstructive procedures are used for this purpose. Furthermore, we offer a range of surgical interventions to correct bent penises and penis malformations.

Paediatric urology

Paediatric operations are another specialist area (correction of engorged kidneys caused by obstructions or constrictions of the renal pelvis and hypospadias corrections). For these, we work in close cooperation with the Department for Paediatric Surgery at Altona Children’s Hospital, headed by Professor Reinshagen.

Treatment options for urinary incontinence

For patients afflicted by stress incontinence, we offer various operations to elevate the pelvic floor, and in more severe cases we can implant artificial sphincter systems.

Urological oncology

The Urology Department treats all urological tumour-related diseases on an interdisciplinary basis together with other specialists working at the University Hospital’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre (UCCC). Radical removal of the kidney as a means of treating non-metastasised renal cell carcinoma is one of the surgery options available in addition to partial removal of the kidney in cases of smaller renal tumours (up to 7cm) or for indications where there is no other choice, e.g. in patients who only have one kidney. Treatment of non-metastasised urothelial cell carcinoma is offered in both the superficial and the muscular invasion stage. If the bladder has to be surgically removed, we offer all modern solutions that work in lieu of this organ. The treatment of testicular tumours is a routine service at our department. The head of this specialist field is Dr Hartmann, who is renowned throughout Germany as the former Senior Consultant of the German Federal Armed Forces Hospital.

Research

Research is a key requirement for making advances in diagnostics, staging and therapy. We engage in both basic and clinical research. Of all clinics in Germany, we publish some of the highest numbers of research papers in respected international journals.